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A department built for your success.

Urbandale Fire Department

A strong fire department starts by equipping firefighters with the best tools possible. From high-tech apparatus to advanced EMS and rescue equipment, we ensure you have access to the best resources that most departments can only dream of. If you’re looking for a place where you can grow, learn, and lead with the best tools in the industry, the Urbandale Fire Department is the perfect place for you.

I'm ready to make moves.

You’ve trained hard, gained experience, and now it’s time to join a department that values your skills. Whether you're looking for a fresh start or the next step in your career, our lateral entry program ensures experienced firefighters transition seamlessly into our ranks with competitive pay, seniority considerations, and immediate access to top-tier benefits.

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No experience? No problem!

The best firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics all started somewhere—why not start here? With top-tier training and endless opportunities, there’s no better time to learn about a career in this field. We offer premier salaries and state-of-the-art tools that let you perform at your best. You bring the ambition, and we'll handle everything else.

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I'm looking for something else.

We provide opportunities for growth not just in the Fire Department, but across a wide range of city departments. Whether you’re drawn to public safety, engineering, administration, or beyond, there’s a place for you here. With a progressive organizational structure, you're encouraged to explore new career paths, take on leadership roles, and expand your expertise.

Something Else...
Fire Stations
3
Calls for Service in 2024
6,450
Experience the Difference

With three fire stations strategically located across the city, we responded to 6,450 calls last year—proving there’s no shortage of action and opportunity when you join us. Our automatic aid agreements with six other metro departments mean you’ll work alongside top-tier professionals in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

It’s not all about the money but…

Pay & Time Off

Experience one of the most competitive compensation packages in the Des Moines metro area. You'll receive top-tier compensation, opportunities for seniority pay, paid vacation, paid sick leave, and 10 paid holidays (plus additional personal holiday time) each year. We support growing families with four weeks of paid parental leave and help EMTs advance their careers by covering up to $10,000 in tuition reimbursement for paramedic school.

Salary

Annual salary ranges from $57,792 - $94,808*

$10K

$10,000 in tuition reimbursement for you to attend paramedic school.

We’ve got you covered…

Insurance & Benefits

Your health and peace of mind matter, which is why we offer one of the most comprehensive benefits packages. You'll have medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with flexible spending accounts to help manage medical expenses. Additional voluntary benefits include Accident and Critical Illness Insurance, LegalShield, and Identity Theft Monitoring & Restoration. The City also provides you with a life insurance policy, with options to expand coverage as needed.

Health

Medical, dental, and vision insurance + flexible spending accounts.

Life

Life insurance, with options to expand coverage as needed.

And when you’re ready to retire…

Retirement

Ask anyone, we're known for offering exceptional retirement benefits designed for your long-term financial security. If you’re joining us from another department, you’ll appreciate the strength of our pension retirement system. Firefighters vest in just five years, ensuring their service counts toward retirement sooner. The pension includes annual increases of 3% per year for the first 22 years of service, then 2% per year up to 30 years. Those who retire at age 55 with 22 years of service receive a 1.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) each year after retirement. For added flexibility, we also offer a Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP) for firefighters who meet the same service and age requirements. You're also eligible for Urbandale's 457(b) deferred compensation plan which helps you grow your savings even faster. For full details on how this plan supports your future, visit the MFPRSI retirement website using the buttons at the very bottom of this page.

MFPRSI

Retirement pension with the Iowa Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System.

457(b)

Save even more with the City's 457(b) financial match program.

Grow with the best…

Advancement Opportunities

Your career trajectory is limited only by your ambition. Our progressive structure opens doors for advancement, allowing you to take on new challenges and make a real difference in your community.

96%

of residents rank our fire services as excellent or good.

95%

of residents rank our EMS as excellent or good.

Progressive and forward-thinking…

Internationally Accredited

We're proud to be internationally accredited by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), a distinction that sets us apart as a leader in fire and emergency services. We meet and exceed national and international benchmarks for excellence.

<10%

Fewer than ten percent of fire departments nationwide achieve accreditation.

7

Only seven departments in Iowa maintain this recognition.

Mind, body, and spirit…

Wellness

Your well-being is our priority. Every firefighter receives an annual mental health check-in with a licensed psychologist, and our trained Peer Support Team is always available. Certified Peer Fitness Trainers help you maintain peak performance, while annual cancer screenings ensure long-term health. Our Employee Assistance Program offers confidential support, and our 24/7 onsite gym and fitness facilities keep you mission-ready.

What are you waiting for?

Discover why the City of Urbandale is known as the ultimate career destination in Central Iowa.

Apply Now